Political parties in the EU and the challenges of enlargement 

Policy Study

This study provides an overview of how political parties across the EU view enlargement, revealing a landscape shaped by an interplay of geopolitical pressures, perceived national interests and institutional concerns.

Although enlargement is a low priority across the EU27, a general consensus exists among mainstream parties that it is a geopolitical necessity for European security. However, specific priorities vary by each country’s geographic and historical position.

Across the political spectrum in the 27 member states, mainstream parties emphasise that candidate countries must fully comply with the Copenhagen criteria prior to accession.

While there is clear resistance to enlargement due to fear of mass migration, financial burdens and economic competition, these concerns are generally mitigated once a strict merit-based approach is reaffirmed.

Photo credits: European Union, 2024/CE – Service audiovisuel/Lukasz Kobus